1992 Honda Civic Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Fixing 1992 Honda Civic window malfunctions: causes and solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
36% chance it's the
Fuse, Relay or Electrical System
0%
20% chance it's the
Window Motor
0%
24% chance it's the
Window Regulator
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1992 Honda Civic window won't go up or down are window's electrical system such as a fuse or relay, a broken window motor, or a broken window regulator.
  • Fuse, Relay or Electrical System: A blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical circuit, causing components to fail or operate intermittently.
  • Window Motor: A faulty window motor or a broken window regulator can prevent the window from moving up or down properly.
  • Window Regulator: A faulty window regulator can cause the window to become stuck or operate erratically due to worn gears or a broken cable.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1992 Honda Civic window won't go up or down?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the door window motor fails, the window may not open or close, or it may operate intermittently. Traditionally, problems with power windows were caused by faulty switches or electrical wiring - especially the wires running between the door and the vehicle body that are subjected to repeated flexing. In these cases, the window might operate intermittently when the door is opened and closed. While this may still be the case on newer cars, it is increasingly common to find window motor problems that originate with a control module. Still, the switches and wiring should be checked thoroughly before replacing a window motor.

When a switch can not make contact and close the circuit, the window cannot be raised and lowered. If the switch on the driver's door will not raise or lower the window in question, but the switch on the corresponding door works just fine, this is a good indication that there is a switch failure. This works the other way around, as well. If the switch on the door does not cause the window to function, but the driver's switch does, that is an indication of a passenger door window switch failure.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

What are the steps to diagnose a non-functioning window in a 1992 Honda Civic?

To effectively diagnose a non-functioning window in a 1992 Honda Civic, start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more intricate assessments. Begin by checking the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the window; this is a quick and easy fix that can often resolve the issue. If the fuse is intact, proceed to inspect the window switch for functionality, as a faulty switch may require replacement. Next, listen for any sounds from the window motor when you activate the switch; a lack of noise could indicate that the motor is defective and needs replacement. If the motor appears to be working, examine the window regulator for signs of damage or wear, as this component is crucial for the window's movement. Finally, ensure that all wiring connections to the window motor and switch are secure and undamaged, as loose or frayed wires can also lead to malfunction. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the problem with your window, making the repair process more efficient and manageable.

What are the common causes for a window not functioning in a 1992 Honda Civic?

When dealing with a non-functioning window in a 1992 Honda Civic, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty window regulator, which is crucial for the window's movement; if it’s damaged, the window may not operate at all. Additionally, the power window motor could be the issue; if this motor is worn out or defective, it will fail to power the regulator, leaving the window stuck. Electrical problems are also a frequent cause, including blown fuses or faulty wiring that disrupts the power supply to the window system. The window switch itself can malfunction over time, preventing the driver from controlling the window effectively. Another possibility is that the window has come off its track, which can cause it to jam or move erratically. Lastly, inspect the window glass for any damage, such as cracks or chips, which can hinder its movement. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify the root cause of the window issue and take the necessary steps to fix it.

How urgent is it to fix the non-operational window in my 1992 Honda Civic?

Fixing the non-operational window in your 1992 Honda Civic is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing safety concern that requires immediate attention. A malfunctioning window can severely limit your visibility while driving, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, leaving a window broken exposes your vehicle's interior to harsh weather conditions, which can lead to costly damage over time. Moreover, a compromised window makes your car an easy target for theft, putting your belongings at risk. In many jurisdictions, driving with a non-operational window may also violate local laws, potentially resulting in fines or legal repercussions. Therefore, addressing this issue promptly is crucial for your safety, the protection of your vehicle, and compliance with regulations. Taking action now can save you from more significant problems down the road.

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